The Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Management (BBWARM) District was created in response to community concerns about water quality, flooding, and loss of aquatic habitat in the Birch Bay Watershed. BBWARM’s stormwater program focuses on protecting water quality and reducing stormwater impacts. Explore our website to learn more about what BBWARM is doing and how you can get involved.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Two people look at a clam while other people stand next to the waters edge at a beach. Words below read, “Day at the Beach. June 7th | 9AM 012PM. BP Heron Center, Birch Bay State Park”. Next to the words are the graphics of an orca, a sea star, and seaweed.

Join us for a "Day at the Beach" on June 7th at Birch Bay State Park from 9 AM to 12 PM! BBWARM, Whatcom CD, and the Friends of Birch Bay State Park will host a beach exploration and celebration event. You can find interactive booths from local organizations that care about our water, explore the beach with expert naturalists, enjoy refreshments, and discover many activities for kids. The event is free, and all are welcome!

CONSERVATION STORY

A husband and wife standing in front of their home in Birch Bay. Their yard is freshly planted with native plants. They are smiling and holding a sign that says "We Love Our Native Plant Garden!"

There is no better place to spend retirement than Birch Bay for Sherry and Charlie Donald. However, their new yard left a lot to be desired. “I was interested in creating a native landscape but had a flat lot with nothing but lawn. [I knew I] would need to learn a lot and get some help.” Sherry signed up for the Neighborhood Native Landscaping Program (NNLP) and got the guidance and resources she had been looking for, including a planting plan, site prep, mulch and native plants, free of charge!

As a result, 2,981 square feet of Sherry’s lawn has been converted into a beautiful native plant landscape. “After the native plants get established, there will be much less maintenance. Also, I want the property to feel like it belongs in the Pacific Northwest and supports the local birds, bees and other critters. I’ll have time to sit in nature in my own backyard, content knowing I am leaving a better place for future generations.” Read more about their experience in their Conservation Story.

Are you interested in participating in NNLP? Visit the program website to learn more and complete the online interest form.

NNLP is a partnership between Whatcom County, Whatcom Conservation District, and Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Management (BBWARM) District.

REPORT STORMWATER ISSUES OR POLLUTION

Have you ever seen a stormwater-related issue and didn’t know what to do about it? Whatcom County Public Works has a quick and easy way to report problems. This form is sent directly to Whatcom County staff who can help address the issues.

The link to the form can be found at the top of the Public Works website.

Use the “Flooding and Drainage Problems” category on this form to report signs of stormwater infrastructure issues such as:

Clogged Infrastructure
Flooding
Erosion

Use the “Water Quality - pollution and spills” category on this form to report pollution-related issues like:

Discolored water
Foamy water
Oil sheen

Rain water flowing into a metal storm drain.

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